Bulk Ethernet cables are available in various types like Cat5e Cable, Cat6 Cable, Cat6a Cable, Cat7 Cable, and Cat8 cables. With so many options available, selecting the appropriate cable for your needs can be challenging. But don't worry because our experts have your back. We will go through all the cables available and determine which one is best for your company's needs. Let's begin.
Cat5e Cable
Cat5e cable is part of the 5th generation of ethernet cables. Its "Cat" in the title refers to the category, while five refers to the era and the "e" signifies an upgraded cable of the 5th generation. Once you've understood the name, now is the perfect time to look into the technical aspect of the ethernet cable.
Cat5e cable can provide the maximum speed of data transfer of 1 Gbps across lengths of 50 meters or 164 feet with a bandwidth that is 350 MHz. The cable can transfer data at 100 Mbps once the length is increased to 328 feet or 100 meters. The cable is available in three variations: Plenum, riser, and PVC. Plenum Ethernet cables can find placement in the plenum regions of buildings.
Plenum areas are horizontal structures that allow return airflow of heating and cooling systems. The plenum Ethernet cables dramatically lower the chance of fire bursting because they possess fire-repellent properties. They do not emit toxins like dangerous fumes or smoke. They are equipped with the top-rated CMP jacket.
Riser cables are suitable for use in the spaces between the risers of structures. Riser cables are used in vertical areas. They can be helpful when there is a risk of fire erupting since they slow the progression of fire and release minimal fumes and not harmful gasses. They have riser-rated CMR jackets. According to the standard set out by the TIA/EIA, they are the second-best jackets. The cables are UV-resistant.
For outdoor use, companies create cables with PVC jackets. The jackets are UV-resistant and sunlight-resistant and provide excellent protection from chemicals.
The structure's inner part contains eight conductors made of copper that is pure or aluminium-clad copper. The conductors are joined in 4 twisted pairs. The four twisted pairs are separated by insulation.
Cat6 Cable
The Cat6 cable, as of the moment, is the most sought-after internet cable. Cat is the term used to describe the type of cable, while 6 is the name of the current generation. From a 50m or 164ft distance, the large Ethernet cable transmits data at 10 Gbps. From a distance of 328 feet, it transfers data at 1 Gbps. The cable can be used to transmit data at speeds that can reach 555 million MHz. The cable comes in three jackets and is available in two versions: pure copper or CCA conductors.
Cat6a Cable
Cat6a cable is the 6th generation enhanced Ethernet cable. It supports high-speed applications that support 10 Gbps data transfer over a 100m or 328ft. The most popular Ethernet cable is offered in three jackets and comes with both conductor types. It comes with an increased bandwidth of 775 milliseconds.
Bulk Ethernet Cable - Which one is best for your company?
If you're looking to ensure your business network is ready to ensure that it is prepared for future upgrades, the Cat6a cable is the best option.
Since there are a lot of electrical wires in the vicinity of the ethernet cables, this can cause crosstalk and EMI. To stop both, it is recommended to opt for Cat6a pure Copper cable that's an STP (shielded Twisted Pairs). STP cables are protected with foil sheets wrapped around all four twisted pairs and foil wraps wrapped around the pair.
Since safety is the primary security concern for every business, choosing ETL-listed or UL-listed bulk Ethernet cable is recommended. UL, as well as ETL, is an independent test organization that have very strict and high standards for safety. Ethernet cables that meet ETL and UL standards were extensively tested against the highest safety standards.
The jacket material is the most important thing to consider. You'll likely need all three kinds of ethernet cables for your office building: Cat6a Plenum Cable, Cat6a Riser Cable, and Cat6a PVC cable. Not to be forgotten, it's not a bad idea to spend a few extra dollars and purchase pure copper bulk Ethernet cables because they are extremely low in attenuation (significantly lower losses in signal strength).
Additionally, pure copper cables come with extremely resistance and are as low as 55% lower than cables with copper cladding. In the end, greater energy transfers to signals, while less is lost in the form of heat. Furthermore, Cat6a cables made of pure copper offer top-quality crosstalk and EMI characteristics since pure copper conductors impede and eliminate them in both cases.